Steps for Starting A Campus Student Organization

Do Your Homework

Consider Your OptionsConsider your options - what kind of student organization would you like? Read this tip sheet about the differences between clubs, cultural centers, and student organizations.

Contact Student AffairsContact the coordinator of student organizations on your campus to find out what you need to do to become a recognized campus organization. This person is probably in Student Affairs, Student Services, or Student Life. That person can help you fill out paperwork and learn about any campus requirements for student groups.

Get Together

Bring Students TogetherGather disabled students, culturally Deaf students, or nondisabled allies who are interested in being a part of your organization. There are many different ways to do this, so go with your strengths! Mostly you are looking for like-minded people willing to share the work and likely to enjoy or appreciate the benefits of the organization. Some options include:

Host a meet-up at an accessible coffee shop or space on campus

Pass around flyers directing people to participate in a short survey or meeting

If your school has a disability studies or Deaf studies program, talk to the department chair or hang out in hallways to talk with people after classes

Use social media to find like-minded people on campus

Have a Working Meeting and Plan Follow-Up Meetings

Discuss the mission and goals of the organization. If you're ready, craft a mission statement that can be shared with others

Determine the structure of your group and whether your campus requires a constitution, charter, bylaws, or other formal type of organization

Connect with Others

Reach Out to DREAMDREAM is run by students and for students. We're always here to help - just contact us. Encourage students in your group to participate in Monthly Mentor Mondays and other DREAM activities.

Sign Up for the DREAM Weekly Newsletter and ListservEvery Friday during the academic year, DREAM sends out news about what's happening across the U.S. with disability and higher education issues. We archive past issues of the newsletter on our website, but you can also ﻿sign up here﻿ - it's a great way to stay informed about what other campuses are doing and it's free!

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Site designed by Michelle White and edited by Wendy Harbour. This site is the property of the Association on Higher Education And Disability (AHEAD). DREAM is part of the National Center for College Students with Disabilities, which is based at AHEAD and funded through the Fund for the Improvement of Postsecondary Education, U.S. Department of Education (P116D150005). The opinions expressed on this website are not necessarily those of the NCCSD, AHEAD, or the U.S. Department of Education.